Robert Branch

The board meeting agenda focused on several key items, including the presentation of the 2025 Annual Report and a proclamation recognizing Transit Worker Appreciation Day. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to planning for the upcoming KCTA millage request, specifically discussing ballot language, tax levy amounts, and the duration of the millage. Other agenda items included updates from the Planning & Development, Performance Monitoring, External Relations, and Board Operations committees, as well as an executive director's report covering Metro Connect and Metro Link updates.

The joint meeting agenda for the Central County Transportation Authority (CCTA) and Kalamazoo County Transportation Authority (KCTA) included the approval of the current agenda and the minutes from the February 9, 2026 meeting. Key discussion items involved a Proclamation Recognizing Transit Workers Day on March 18, 2026, the presentation of the 2025 Annual Report, and various committee items. The Planning & Development Committee required discussion and direction regarding the August 4, 2026 KCTA Ballot Language for a tax levy amount and duration of millage. The Performance Monitoring Committee addressed action items concerning the adoption of CCTA Resolution 26-001 levying the 2026 Transit Millage and consideration to adopt MDOT Grant Resolution of Intent 26-002. Informational items included committee notes and the Monthly Financial Report.

The meeting featured a public comment period addressing bus capabilities at transit stops during inclement weather. The Planning and Development Committee provided a status update, while the Performance Monitoring Committee reported on the review process for the purchase of two 40-foot diesel buses from the Gillig Corporation.

The meeting encompassed several key operational and administrative actions. Discussions included the review and approval of the Public Transit Human Services Plan update, the annual update to the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan, and the 2026 Joint Meeting Calendar. Significant financial and contractual items were addressed, including the approval of a lease agreement with Kalamazoo County for parking spaces and an amendment to a lease with the City of Kalamazoo. Board members also discussed the timeline for the upcoming KCTA millage election, setting the ballot date for August 2026. Additionally, the Executive Director provided updates on fixed-route service adjustments, construction projects, and audit preparations for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

The joint meeting focused on a report from the Planning and Development Committee regarding the upcoming millage question for the November ballot. Discussions centered on evaluating the millage amount and the duration of the millage, specifically considering recent changes to the State of Michigan law that expanded the potential length of millages beyond five years.